Research

Optical Fabrication and Testing

Gradient Index Materials

Gradient-index (GRIN) materials have an index of refraction that varies as a function of position. Research in our group focuses on glass and plastic GRIN lenses to be used in optical systems. These elements are useful to a lens designer since they provide additional degrees of freedom, and thus can improve system performance. Research topics currently pursued range from the beginning of the process (fabricating the GRIN materials) to end applications (designing and tolerancing the optical systems).

Optical Metrology and System Alignment by Phase Retrieval

The Phase Retrieval and Imaging Science Group conducts research into obtaining improved performance in imaging systems and measuring wavefronts by computational means. Current projects include phase retrieval as means for precision optical metrology for aspheric surfaces and for alignment of optical systems.